WILLEMSTAD – The Stichting Studiefinanciering Curaçao (SSC) has entered a phase of deep strategic reform, marking what it describes as one of the most significant transformations in its history. The changes focus not only on improving internal processes but also on redefining how the foundation serves Curaçao’s students and strengthens the island’s long-term human capital.
SSC says this new phase is built on five key pillars that will shape its service delivery and educational impact in the coming years.
Expanded and More Accessible Study Pathways
Demand for higher education continues to grow—regionally, in the Netherlands, and on the island itself. In response, SSC has widened its scope and is offering more tailored academic and personal guidance to help students make informed study choices. The foundation is also strengthening ties with the labor market to better understand which fields are in demand.
SSC announced that applications for study financing for the 2026–2027 academic year are now open. Students wishing to study in the Netherlands or the region can apply until 15 January 2026. Those planning to study in Curaçao have until 31 March 2026.
Information sessions will take place in the coming months, including a general orientation event on Monday, 8 December 2025, in the WTC auditorium. Admission is free. Dates can be found on SSC’s website under “Nieuws”.
More Transparent and Efficient Payment Processes
SSC is implementing a restructured and largely digitalized repayment system designed to be clearer, more efficient, and more empathetic. The new approach emphasizes preventive communication and offers greater flexibility in repayment arrangements.
Strengthened Partnerships with Regional Universities
The foundation has invested strategically in building stronger relationships with universities across the Caribbean and Latin America. This includes formal cooperation agreements, expanded academic pathways, and new program opportunities for Curaçaoan students.
Next Phase of Cooperation with EducationUSA
SSC’s collaboration with EducationUSA has now entered its second phase, giving students broader access to reliable information about studying in the United States. Outreach has expanded to more schools, communities, and families, supported by ongoing workshops and orientation programs. SSC is also working with Aruba and Bonaire to create a regional alliance for student guidance.
Transition Toward a Human Development Institution
Perhaps the most remarkable shift is SSC’s evolution from a traditional study financing fund into a broader human development agency. The foundation is:
• Providing deeper involvement in students’ study trajectories.
• Preparing six staff members to become career and study orientation specialists (LOB’ers).
• Supporting students studying locally, regionally, and in the Netherlands with improved guidance services.
• Expanding SSC Netherlands with dedicated staff for student support and housing assistance.
• Building a comprehensive data bank to map the study choices of Curaçaoan students and inform future policy.
SSC sees its new mission as central to strengthening Curaçao’s future workforce. “We believe strongly that investing in people is the foundation for a country with greater capacity, confidence, and opportunity,” the foundation said.
The transformation signals an ambitious shift toward a model in which SSC plays a leading role not just in funding education but in shaping the island’s human development strategy for years to come.